This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Landscape, Nature and Architecture

Technological improvements enabled Prince Albert to collect photographs of places that were significant to him

GEORGE WASHINGTON WILSON (1823-93)

Grant Family Portrait

1861

Albumen print | 15.7 x 13.8 cm (image) | RCIN 2160105

Photograph of a family portrait of John Grant, the Head Keeper at Balmoral Castle and his family posed outside of their house on the Balmoral estate. The group includes John Grant (1810-79), and Mrs Grant (1817-87) and their children; John, Alexander, James, Arthur, Albert, Andrew and Victoria. The family dog is seated at Mrs Grants feet.

This portrait was probably taken in 1861 when Wilson was asked by Queen Victoria to take a series of photographs of her Keepers and their families.
  • Creator(s)

    George Washington Wilson (1823-93) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Albert Grant (1852-1921)
    Arthur Patrick Grant (1850-1937)
    Grant family
    John Grant (1810-79)
    Elizabeth Grant (1817-87)
    John Grant (1842-82)
    Victoria Alexandrina Mussen (1858-1914)
    Andrew Grant (1855-1943)
    Alexander Grant (1844-1939)
    James Anderson Grant (1846-81)
  • 15.7 x 13.8 cm (image)

    28.3 x 36.6 cm (page dimensions)

  • [Balmoral 1856-61]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Agriculture and related techniques
        • Animal husbandry
          • Dogs
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs